Go Back
turnip green soup

Hearty & Healthy Turnip Green Soup Recipe

A nutrient-packed, comforting turnip green soup that’s low in calories, high in flavor, and perfect for healthy eating.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 People
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 Medium Yellow onion
  • 3 Cloves Garlic
  • 2 Cups Turnip greens
  • 1 Cup Carrots
  • 1 Rib Celery
  • 1 Piece/Optional Smoked turkey leg/ham hock
  • 1 (15 oz) can White beans
  • 1 Tsp Paprika
  • 1/2 Tsp Black pepper
  • 4 Cups Chicken
  • To taste Salt
  • 1 Tbsp Apple cider vinegar

Method
 

  1. Sauté the aromatics: In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, celery, and carrots. Cook for 5–7 minutes, until softened.
  2. Build the broth: Stir in garlic, paprika, and black pepper. Let the spices bloom for 1 minute.
  3. Add the greens & liquid: Toss in chopped turnip greens and white beans. Pour in the broth and nestle in the smoked meat.
  4. Simmer to perfection: Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30–35 minutes.
  5. Finish with acidity: Remove the meat, shred it, and return it to the pot. Stir in apple cider vinegar. Simmer 5 more minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Greens Hold Power: Don’t overcook the turnip greens—wilting is good, but mushy is a no-go. You want that slight bite for freshness.
  • Skip the Shortcuts: Canned broth is fine, but homemade or low-sodium broth lets your greens shine without the salt war.
  • Smart Acidity: A splash of apple cider vinegar at the end doesn’t just brighten the flavor—it neutralizes the bitterness naturally found in turnip greens.
  • Texture is King: The soup should have contrast—creamy beans, tender greens, chunky veg. Stir gently to preserve that harmony.
  • Next-Day Brilliance: Like all soul soups, this one deepens overnight. Store airtight, reheat slowly, and let the flavors remind you why leftovers are legendary.